Latest news with #USPTO
Phone Arena
2 days ago
- Phone Arena
Future iPhones may quietly fix one of mobile photography's biggest issues
Referential image of the iPhone 16 Pro Max cameras. | Image credit — PhoneArena A newly filed Apple patent suggests that future iPhones could feature a major upgrade to autofocus technology. Instead of using a single infrared dot projector, like many current models do, Apple is exploring a system that uses two invisible laser beams working together to lock focus more quickly and accurately, even when the subject — or the user — is moving. The patent, labeled US 12335613 B2, explains how this twin-laser system would function. When you raise your phone to take a picture, each laser fires a pulse of light at a slightly different angle. Tiny sensors measure how long it takes for those reflections to return. If both beams agree on the distance, the iPhone locks focus immediately. If not, the system waits and switches to the traditional autofocus method before trying again. Figure in Apple's laser-based autofocus filing. | Image credit — USPTO This isn't the first time laser-based autofocus has appeared on smartphones. LG introduced it with the LG G3 back in 2014 to improve focus speed in low light. ASUS also included laser modules in its Zenfone lineup, while Huawei and OnePlus used them as part of hybrid systems combining laser, phase detection, and contrast-based methods. Google's earlier Pixel models also featured laser autofocus, though it later shifted toward dual pixel and computational approaches. However, all these systems used a single laser beam, which could be fooled by reflective surfaces like glass or metal. However, Apple's proposed system stands out by using two lasers at different angles to verify distance more accurately. If the two signals disagree, the phone falls back on more traditional focus methods before retrying — something no existing phone camera does. Figure in Apple's laser-based autofocus filing. | Image credit — USPTO This new approach could help reduce blurry photos in many common situations — like snapping a picture of your pet running in the yard or capturing a landscape from inside a moving car or plane. The lasers offer more precise depth judgment, especially when dealing with reflective surfaces like water, metal, or glass. In Apple's filing, a few potential advantages are highlighted: Faster photos: The lens won't need to hunt back and forth to find focus, so you're less likely to miss fleeting moments. Improved accuracy: The system can detect and avoid false reflections, resulting in clearer images through windows, fences, or in low light. Better efficiency: Less focus searching means lower power usage, which could slightly extend battery life over time. It's important to note that, though the patent describes a camera that could function in high-motion environments, Apple has not confirmed whether this system will appear in upcoming iPhones. Like many of Apple's patents, this may or may not become a commercial product. However, the small size and solid-state nature of the components make them a practical fit for future iPhone models or even devices like the Vision Pro. If this feature does ship, Apple could brand it with terms like "instant laser focus" or "dual-beam depth lock." But I think that for users, the benefit will be simple: more dependable sharpness in everyday photos, especially when time and movement are working against you. Secure your connection now at a bargain price! We may earn a commission if you make a purchase Check Out The Offer
The Herald Scotland
2 days ago
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
US stock futures lower amid Israel-Iran conflict
Separately, a U.S. official said Trump would not sign a draft statement calling for de-escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict. Meanwhile, Israel is determined to continue its assault on Iran despite reports saying Iran wants to reopen nuclear talks. "We're going to go about our operation to remove these two threats," Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, referring to Iran's missile and nuclear programs, in a Bloomberg TV interview. "Whether Iran will decide to meet with the United States and agree to terms that they should have taken a month ago, or two weeks ago, or two months ago, you know, that's up to Iran to decide." At 6:15 a.m. ET, futures based on the blue-chip Dow fell-0.58%, while broad S&P 500 futures dropped -0.54% and tech-laden Nasdaq slipped -0.56%. Oil prices rose. May's retail sales data are due before the market opens. Economists surveyed by FactSet forecast a decline of 0.7% in total sales in May from April after a gain of just 0.1% in the prior month. However, the main event this week will be the Federal Reserve's rate policy decision due midweek. Almost everyone expects central bank policymakers to hold rates at their current target range of 4.25% to 4.50%, according to the CME FedWatch tool. Along with the Fed's policy announcement, central bankers will release their forecasts for economic growth, unemployment and inflation. Most economists expect the Fed's projections to show higher inflation in the second part of the year, a fairly low unemployment rate and slower economic growth. Cryptocurrency JPMorgan Chase, the country's biggest bank, has applied for a trademark related to digital currency with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), leading to speculation the application for "JPMD" means the bank is preparing to launch its own stablecoin. Stablecoins are digital assets designed to maintain a value in line with the U.S. dollar. TJPMorgan Chase filed the application on June 15, according to the USPTO's website. The application listed "JPMD" as a good or service that would provide "trading, exchange, transfer and payment services for digital assets," among other categories related to cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. Medora Lee is a money, markets, and personal finance reporter at USA TODAY. You can reach her at mjlee@ and subscribe to our free Daily Money newsletter for personal finance tips and business news every Monday through Friday.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
US stock futures lower amid Israel-Iran conflict
U.S. stock futures are lower after President Donald Trump abruptly left the Group of Seven summit in Canada. Trump had earlier urged everyone to immediately evacuate Tehran and reiterated that Iran should have signed a nuclear deal with the United States. Separately, a U.S. official said Trump would not sign a draft statement calling for de-escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict. Meanwhile, Israel is determined to continue its assault on Iran despite reports saying Iran wants to reopen nuclear talks. 'We're going to go about our operation to remove these two threats,' Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, referring to Iran's missile and nuclear programs, in a Bloomberg TV interview. 'Whether Iran will decide to meet with the United States and agree to terms that they should have taken a month ago, or two weeks ago, or two months ago, you know, that's up to Iran to decide.' At 6:15 a.m. ET, futures based on the blue-chip Dow fell-0.58%, while broad S&P 500 futures dropped -0.54% and tech-laden Nasdaq slipped -0.56%. Oil prices rose. May's retail sales data are due before the market opens. Economists surveyed by FactSet forecast a decline of 0.7% in total sales in May from April after a gain of just 0.1% in the prior month. However, the main event this week will be the Federal Reserve's rate policy decision due midweek. Almost everyone expects central bank policymakers to hold rates at their current target range of 4.25% to 4.50%, according to the CME FedWatch tool. Along with the Fed's policy announcement, central bankers will release their forecasts for economic growth, unemployment and inflation. Most economists expect the Fed's projections to show higher inflation in the second part of the year, a fairly low unemployment rate and slower economic growth. JPMorgan Chase, the country's biggest bank, has applied for a trademark related to digital currency with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), leading to speculation the application for 'JPMD' means the bank is preparing to launch its own stablecoin. Stablecoins are digital assets designed to maintain a value in line with the U.S. dollar. TJPMorgan Chase filed the application on June 15, according to the USPTO's website. The application listed 'JPMD' as a good or service that would provide 'trading, exchange, transfer and payment services for digital assets,' among other categories related to cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. Medora Lee is a money, markets, and personal finance reporter at USA TODAY. You can reach her at mjlee@ and subscribe to our free Daily Money newsletter for personal finance tips and business news every Monday through Friday. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: US stock futures lower amid Israel-Iran conflict Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
USA Today
3 days ago
- Business
- USA Today
US stock futures lower amid Israel-Iran conflict
U.S. stock futures are lower after President Donald Trump abruptly left the Group of Seven summit in Canada. Trump had earlier urged everyone to immediately evacuate Tehran and reiterated that Iran should have signed a nuclear deal with the United States. Separately, a U.S. official said Trump would not sign a draft statement calling for de-escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict. Meanwhile, Israel is determined to continue its assault on Iran despite reports saying Iran wants to reopen nuclear talks. 'We're going to go about our operation to remove these two threats,' Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, referring to Iran's missile and nuclear programs, in a Bloomberg TV interview. 'Whether Iran will decide to meet with the United States and agree to terms that they should have taken a month ago, or two weeks ago, or two months ago, you know, that's up to Iran to decide.' Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle. At 6:15 a.m. ET, futures based on the blue-chip Dow fell-0.58%, while broad S&P 500 futures dropped -0.54% and tech-laden Nasdaq slipped -0.56%. Oil prices rose. May's retail sales data are due before the market opens. Economists surveyed by FactSet forecast a decline of 0.7% in total sales in May from April after a gain of just 0.1% in the prior month. However, the main event this week will be the Federal Reserve's rate policy decision due midweek. Almost everyone expects central bank policymakers to hold rates at their current target range of 4.25% to 4.50%, according to the CME FedWatch tool. Along with the Fed's policy announcement, central bankers will release their forecasts for economic growth, unemployment and inflation. Most economists expect the Fed's projections to show higher inflation in the second part of the year, a fairly low unemployment rate and slower economic growth. Cryptocurrency JPMorgan Chase, the country's biggest bank, has applied for a trademark related to digital currency with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), leading to speculation the application for 'JPMD' means the bank is preparing to launch its own stablecoin. Stablecoins are digital assets designed to maintain a value in line with the U.S. dollar. TJPMorgan Chase filed the application on June 15, according to the USPTO's website. The application listed 'JPMD' as a good or service that would provide 'trading, exchange, transfer and payment services for digital assets,' among other categories related to cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. Medora Lee is a money, markets, and personal finance reporter at USA TODAY. You can reach her at mjlee@ and subscribe to our free Daily Money newsletter for personal finance tips and business news every Monday through Friday.
The Market Online
4 days ago
- Automotive
- The Market Online
Battery X Metals validates EV battery rebalancing technology through successful real-world trials
Battery X Metals (CSE:BATX) announced a major milestone in the development of its next-generation lithium-ion battery rebalancing technology The system successfully rebalanced all cells to 4.20 volts, recovering 1.95 ampere-hours of capacity—a 3.9 per cent increase in usable energy The system is designed for both repair and second-life repurposing of lithium-ion batteries, supporting sustainability goals and reducing the need for costly replacements Battery X Metals stock (CSE:BATX) last traded at $0.33 Battery X Metals (CSE:BATX) announced a major milestone in the development of its next-generation lithium-ion battery rebalancing technology. Its wholly owned subsidiary, Battery X Rebalancing Technologies Inc., has successfully validated the core innovations described in its provisional patent applications filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) through a series of real-world preliminary trials. The company's second-generation rebalancing platform, known as Prototype 2.0 (pictured above), demonstrated exceptional performance in restoring lost capacity in electric vehicle (EV) battery packs due to cell-level imbalances. These trials mark a significant step forward in Battery X's mission to extend the lifespan of EV batteries and reduce long-term ownership costs for consumers and fleet operators. In one trial, Prototype 2.0 was tested on a 96-cell battery pack from a Nissan Leaf—one of the most common out-of-warranty EV models in the U.S. Despite only minor voltage imbalances, the system successfully rebalanced all cells to 4.20 volts, recovering 1.95 ampere-hours of capacity—a 3.9 per cent increase in usable energy. This result highlights the precision and scalability of the technology, even in relatively healthy battery packs. A second trial involved a 144-cell battery pack from a fully electric Class 3 commercial vehicle exhibiting significant imbalance. Prototype 2.0 recovered 66.3 ampere-hours, representing a 37.7 per cent recovery of the pack's rated capacity. The system achieved 100 per cent recovery of imbalance-induced capacity loss, demonstrating its robustness under more demanding conditions and its applicability to commercial EV platforms. 'The trials are confirming exactly what we filed with the USPTO,' Massimo Bellini Bressi, CEO of Battery X Metals said in a media release. 'To see both passenger and commercial electric vehicle battery platforms respond with full imbalance-related capacity recovery proves our technological innovations work-and it works where it matters most: in real-world environments with real-world degradation caused by battery cell imbalance.' The company's proprietary hardware and software platform includes advanced diagnostic tools capable of assessing battery State-of-Health (SoH) and identifying degradation patterns. The system is designed for both repair and second-life repurposing of lithium-ion batteries, supporting sustainability goals and reducing the need for costly replacements. Battery X's technology has also been independently validated by the National Research Council (NRC) of Canada. In a controlled test, the system successfully rebalanced a 15-cell LiFePO4 battery module, recovering nearly all capacity lost due to artificially induced imbalances. With global EV sales reaching 17.1 million units in 2024 and projections indicating that nearly 40 million EVs will fall out of warranty by 2031, the need for cost-effective battery maintenance solutions is growing rapidly. Battery X Rebalancing Technologies aims to position itself as a first mover in this emerging market. Looking ahead, the company plans to expand its validation program to include a broader range of EV battery chemistries and configurations. These efforts will support commercialization and market readiness for Prototype 2.0 across both consumer and fleet-based applications. Battery X Rebalancing Technologies' innovations represent the culmination of years of research and development and underscore the company's commitment to supporting the global transition to sustainable electric mobility. Battery X Metals Inc. is an energy transition resource exploration and technology company committed to advancing domestic and critical battery metal resource exploration and developing next-generation proprietary technologies. Battery X Metals stock (CSE:BATX) last traded at $0.33 and has risen 266.67 per cent since the year began and 17.65 per cent since this time last year. Join the discussion: Find out what everybody's saying about this stock on the Battery X Metals Bullboard, and check out the rest of Stockhouse's stock forums and message boards. The material provided in this article is for information only and should not be treated as investment advice. For full disclaimer information, please click here.
